Cost of Living in Golden, MS

With a cost of living index of 63, Golden, MS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 37% cheaper than the national average and 8% below the Mississippi state average of 71. Golden is a small community of 178 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Golden's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $752 (43% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $103,100 (66% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.1x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Golden is $48,889, which is 35% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Golden. The area sees an average annual temperature of 59.6°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 43°F. Annual rainfall totals 58.7 inches spread over roughly 113 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.